Swimming pools are a great way to enjoy the summer, but they also pose a serious safety risk, especially for children. According to the Lifesaving Society, drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional death among Canadians under the age of 60. As a pool owner in Ontario, it is important to take steps to ensure the safety of everyone who uses your pool. Here are some pool safety tips that every Ontario pool owner should know.
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Install a fence: A fence is the first line of defense against unauthorized access to your pool. In Ontario, the law requires that all outdoor pools be surrounded by a fence that is at least four feet high. The fence should be self-closing and self-latching, and the gate should be kept locked when the pool is not in use.
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Teach children to swim: According to the Lifesaving Society, the risk of drowning is reduced by 88% among children who have taken swim lessons. Enroll your children in swimming lessons at a young age, and make sure they are supervised while in the pool.
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Provide adult supervision: Children should never be left unsupervised near a pool, even for a moment. It is important to designate a responsible adult to supervise the pool whenever it is in use.
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Learn CPR: In case of an emergency, knowing how to perform CPR can be a life-saving skill. Consider taking a CPR course so you can be prepared in case of an emergency.
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Install a pool alarm: A pool alarm is an additional safety measure that can alert you if someone enters the pool without your knowledge. There are several different types of pool alarms available, including those that detect motion, sound, or pressure changes.
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Keep the pool area clear: Keep the pool area clear of toys and other objects that can obstruct the view of the pool. This will make it easier to see if someone is in trouble in the water.
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Store chemicals safely: Pool chemicals can be dangerous if not handled properly. Store chemicals in a secure location, away from children and pets.
By following these pool safety tips, you can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of everyone who uses your pool. Remember, safety should always be your top priority when it comes to pool ownership.